The ballroom glittered on, but beneath the surface, something had begun to shift.
Laughter filled the air, glasses clinked, and the orchestra continued to play; a signal for the chatter to continue. This was applicable to other guests, having no idea of the undercurrent running through the party.
An Ning was being introduced to everyone by her parents; she smiled and nodded, giving no sense of uneasiness, as though she belonged here perfectly.
Every movement of hers seemed composed, measured—an effortless extension of grace that made people forget she had ever been anything less than part of the A family.
Compliments followed where she went.
"Such poise."
"She resembles Madam Gu in her youth."
"Truly, the A family's jewel."
